When we talk about Indian food, the most popular cities that come to mind are Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and more. But, the recent list of World’s Best Cities for Food 2026 by Time Out has changed the way the world sees Indian food. In this list, a technology and It hub has been rated among the best food cities, and you will be surprised to learn about it. According to Time Out, Bengaluru has been ranked 13th position, after surveying more than 24,000 locals around the world and consulting a panel of experts. The report states that the city received a 60 per cent score from the food expert panel and an 82 per cent quality rating from locals, securing the 13th position. From sourdough pizza bars, natural wine spots, and vinyl-bar-cum-breweries, Bengaluru has become the only Indian city on the global list. In the number 1 position, they have Lima, followed by Bangkok, Mexico, London, Barcelona, Ho Chi Minh City, Melbourne, Beijing, Athens, Lisbon, Cape Town, Osaka, Bengaluru, Naples, New York, Hong Kong, Buenos Aires, Marseille, Copenhagen, and Medellin.
What to eat in Bengaluru
The best way to explore a city’s flavours is by indulging in its local cuisine. Here are a few local dishes that are worth trying.
Bisi Bele Bath
It refers to a comforting, one-pot meal made with rice, toor dal (split pigeon peas), tamarind, vegetables, and a special aromatic spice blend called Bisi Bele Bath powder.
Bene Masala Dosa
It is a popular South Indian dish enjoyed in Bengaluru. Here, Benne means butter in Karnataka and this dosa is cooked with butter resulting in a crispy exterior and rich flavour. It is filled with spiced potato and served with coconut chutney.
Chow Chow Bath
This is a classic breakfast dish that pairs with Kesari Bath, a saffron-infused semolina dessert. It is commonly served at traditional darshinis across the city and remains a nostalgic favourite for many Bengalureans.
Ragi Mudde
It is one of f Karnataka’s most traditional and nutritious dishes, made with finger millet flour and water, shaped into soft balls and typically eaten with spicy sambar, saaru, or meat curries.
Maddur Vada
This is native to Maddur town, located between Bengaluru and Mysuru and is a crispy snack made with rice flour, semolina, onions, curry leaves, and spices. It goes well with filter coffee.
Vangi bath
It is a classic rice dish that combines cooked rice with sautéed brinjals, tamarind, and aromatic spices, making for a one-pot meal.
Congress Kadlekai
It is a spicy peanut snack said to have originated near the city’s Congress party office. It refers to a spicy blend of roasted peanuts, tossed with onions, tomatoes, coriander, green chilies, lemon juice, and a blend of spices.
Mysore Pak
While native to Mysuru, Mysore Pak is a sweet dish and an integral part of Bengaluru’s culinary identity, made with gram flour, sugar, and generous amounts of ghee.
